Jaw misalignment is a common dental and facial issue that can impact both aesthetics and function. Overbite and underbite are two of the most prevalent forms of jaw misalignment, leading to difficulties in chewing, speaking, and even breathing. While mild cases can sometimes be treated with orthodontics, severe misalignment often requires surgical intervention. Jaw Surgery in Islamabad offers a permanent and effective solution for individuals looking to correct their bite and improve facial harmony.
Understanding Overbite and Underbite
What is an Overbite?
An overbite, also known as a deep bite, occurs when the upper teeth excessively overlap the lower teeth when the mouth is closed. While a slight overbite is normal, a severe overbite can cause:
✔ Difficulty in biting and chewing food
✔ Increased wear and tear on lower teeth
✔ Speech problems, such as lisping
✔ Jaw pain and discomfort
✔ An imbalanced facial profile
What is an Underbite?
An underbite occurs when the lower jaw extends beyond the upper jaw, causing the lower teeth to protrude forward. This condition can lead to:
✔ Difficulty in chewing and speaking
✔ Jaw pain and TMJ disorders
✔ A “bulldog-like” appearance
✔ Increased risk of dental wear and gum issues
✔ Breathing difficulties
Both overbite and underbite can be genetic or develop due to habits such as prolonged thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or excessive use of pacifiers during childhood.
Jaw Surgery for Overbite and Underbite Correction
When orthodontic treatments like braces are not enough to correct a misaligned bite, jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) becomes the most effective option. It involves repositioning the upper jaw (maxilla), lower jaw (mandible), or both to create a balanced and functional bite.
How Jaw Surgery Works
Jaw surgery is performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon under general anesthesia. The procedure involves:
- Pre-Surgical Orthodontics: Braces or aligners are often used before surgery to align the teeth properly.
- Surgical Repositioning: The surgeon makes precise cuts in the jawbones and repositions them to correct the bite.
- Fixation: Titanium plates and screws are used to secure the jaw in its new position.
- Recovery and Healing: The jaw heals over several months, with continued orthodontic adjustments if needed.
Types of Jaw Surgery for Overbite and Underbite
1. Maxillary Osteotomy (Upper Jaw Surgery) for Overbite
This procedure corrects a severe overbite by repositioning the upper jaw. The surgeon moves the maxilla forward or backward to create proper alignment with the lower jaw.
✔ Best for: Overbite, crossbite, and open bite
✔ Improves facial symmetry and enhances jaw function
2. Mandibular Osteotomy (Lower Jaw Surgery) for Underbite
For an underbite, the lower jaw is repositioned to align properly with the upper jaw. The procedure helps bring the jaw into balance and corrects bite-related issues.
✔ Best for: Underbite and protruding lower jaw
✔ Enhances facial aesthetics and improves chewing ability
3. Double Jaw Surgery (Bimaxillary Osteotomy)
In cases where both jaws are misaligned, surgery is performed on both the upper and lower jaws to achieve proper balance.
✔ Best for: Severe jaw misalignment affecting facial harmony
✔ Provides significant aesthetic and functional improvements
Benefits of Jaw Surgery for Overbite and Underbite
Jaw surgery offers a permanent solution for bite misalignment and comes with several benefits, including:
✅ Improved Chewing and Digestion: Proper bite alignment allows for better food breakdown and digestion.
✅ Enhanced Speech Clarity: Correcting jaw misalignment eliminates speech difficulties caused by overbite or underbite.
✅ Reduced Jaw Pain and TMJ Issues: Relieves pressure on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), reducing discomfort.
✅ Better Facial Aesthetics: Achieves a more balanced and symmetrical face.
✅ Long-Term Oral Health: Prevents excessive wear and tear on teeth, reducing the risk of gum disease and tooth loss.
✅ Easier Breathing: Opens the airway, reducing breathing difficulties and sleep apnea symptoms.
Jaw Surgery vs. Orthodontics: Which is Right for You?
While braces and clear aligners can help correct minor bite issues, they cannot reposition the jawbone. Here’s how orthodontics compares to jaw surgery:
| Treatment | Effectiveness | Best for | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Braces/Invisalign | Effective for mild cases | Minor overbite or underbite | Cannot correct jawbone misalignment |
| Jaw Surgery | Permanent solution | Moderate to severe cases | Requires recovery time |
If your overbite or underbite is caused by jaw misalignment rather than just misaligned teeth, surgery is likely the best option.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery after Jaw Surgery in Islamabad takes time, but the results are well worth the effort. Here’s what you can expect:
✔ Hospital Stay: 1-3 days, depending on the complexity of the surgery.
✔ Swelling & Bruising: Peaks within the first week but subsides gradually.
✔ Soft Diet: Patients must stick to a soft or liquid diet for 4-6 weeks.
✔ Pain Management: Medications and cold compresses help with discomfort.
✔ Full Healing: Takes about 3-6 months, with follow-up orthodontic treatment if necessary.
Patients should follow their surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully for a smooth recovery.
Is Jaw Surgery Right for You?
If you experience any of the following issues, you may be a good candidate for jaw surgery:
✔ A severe overbite or underbite that affects eating, speaking, or breathing
✔ Jaw pain, TMJ disorders, or frequent headaches
✔ Excessive tooth wear due to an uneven bite
✔ A desire to improve facial aesthetics and jawline balance
✔ Difficulty closing your lips completely due to jaw misalignment
A consultation with an experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon will help determine the best treatment plan for your specific condition.
Where to Get the Best Jaw Surgery in Islamabad?
Choosing a trusted clinic is essential for successful jaw surgery. Dynamic Clinic in Islamabad specializes in advanced jaw correction procedures, offering expert care and cutting-edge treatment options. Their team of skilled surgeons provides customized solutions to help you achieve a healthier, more confident smile.
